How to Get Unique Photographs Without Using Photoshop

Playing with photography is fun, but sometimes using Photoshop can be overwhelming. For people unfamiliar with this software or without the money to purchase it, there are alternative routes to acquiring unique photographs without having to learn how to use Photoshop. Here are three ways to achieve awesome pictures without costly software.

Use Your Phone!

Many people forget that their phones have photo editing software. If you don't feel like purchasing Photoshop, you can get by through using the functions on a simple cell phone. Of course, every phone is different so you'll need to read your user manual. A common cell phone (not even as fancy as an iPod) can contain functions such as filter, style, warp, partial blur, adjustments in brightness, contrast, color, re-size capabilities, rotation, flip, crop, and insertions of frames, pictures, clip art, emoticons, and text! Filter range form fog and antique to color boost and sharpen. This is a common feature on many phones and you might have it, but not even know how to access it. On many phones you simply go to my stuff > picture > then click on the picture to edit. Consult your user manual if your phone has a different set up.

Use Photobucket

This online photo hosting website has free photo editing software, and (bonus!) gives you a free place to store your photos in case your computer crashes. This free editor has effects such as patchwork, color splash, blur edges, blueprint, neon, grey scale, and invert. It also has retro filters such as bronze, old photo, and ink stamp, along with the ability to smooth wrinkles or distort the photo. This definitely has more effects than the common cell phone and it's free!

Buy a Holga Camera

This cheap, plastic camera will provide you with unique photos, because every time you take one, the film gets partially exposed in different ways from light penetrating the cracks of the camera. The result is unique photographs and no two ever look the same. You can even customize your Holga camera through online tutorials and if you want, you can purchase an underwater Holga camera. The price can be as low as $30 or it can run you over $100 for a really cool one.